i have an 03 base z and would love to go FI but it is so friggin expensive. What is the cheapest route to an affordable yet reliable FI setup. This is a serious question, so please leave out the flames regarding me asking for cheap power.
thank you in advance for your responses

 

What do you consider affordable? The Vortech kit with a decent tune is probably about the cheapest. If you prefer a turbo, the TN ST kit isn't a bad choice. Both can make decent power (330-380whp). Both can be purchased and installed for around or under $7,000. But you should plan on buying a boost and wideband gauge to monitor your setup.

 

+1 look up Vortech kits and that will be your most inexpensive wat to go f/i IMO. I had one and it ran strong.

 

$1200 and you have 370hp/440lbs of tq.....can't beat the bang per buck of nitrous. Cheapest FI you'll find anywhere for the Z.

 

cheapest i'd say would be vortech sc... but like suggested you should invest on a boost gauge, and wideband sensor.

 

Vortech or TN ST...probably better off if you're new to tuning with the Vortech though.

 

get a used kit that looks in good shape and there u go.. u could get a used st kit or supercharger around 3k

 

+1 on the vortech setup, I went with the TN kit first, it didn't seem that reliable to me. Now I'm buying a new built motor w/twin turbo setup. If I had to do it again I would have went with the Vortech.

By the way I have TN kit for sale though if you do want one for 4k.

 

Guys, what else you need with Vortex tuner kit? Can it live with OEM injectors and fuel lines? I assume only some sort of A/F management is necessary?

 

cheap and FI dont mix very well. just stay NA

 

I agree. I tried that route already, I strongly discourage anyone that can't afford to pay for a new engine to go with the whole cheap FI thing. If you really want to go FI and do it the safest way then go with stillen's super charger, they will warranty the eninge for 3yr/36k mi. To me that would be the best route. For cheap FI that is.

 

I've seen many cheapest routes end up being the most expensive routes. I'd suggest getting a Vortech. It seems to be the safest cheapest route. Cheap and reliable power don't usually mix.

 

If you want to play you got to pay. When throw in clutch/flywheel, install tune,gauges your looking at about 6-7k minimum. Its so worth it though!

 

Cheap + FI = trouble

 

Hahaha . . . no such thing exists when talking Turbos or Blowers . ..

You can go Nitrous though, that's definitely cheap.

 

the Turbonator!!!!!

 

you know this thread did spark some intrest for me in the vortech. after finding the install manual and many other how to's on the internet you can safely say that the vortech is a good entry level FI at a resonable price. I got a quote from SuperchargersOnline.com*: $4,479.00. Plus its also an easy install. most mechanically able people can do it with minimal tools needed.

just a thought for those looking for something like that...

- J

 

Yes you have to deal w/ a new hood and yes it makes less peak power than the other kits, but I'm also guessing the Stillen SC has got to be one of the lower cost, lower maintenance (i.e. reliable) options for FI. I've had the Stillen SC for about 2 years now and other than replacing belts and one repair to a faulty seal on the fuel pump/line i've had no "upkeep" costs at all. One thing to keep in mind in terms of affordability is what you will need to spend (tuning, upkeep, etc.) AFTER the install. I don't really worry much about a blown engine w/ my setup (maybe i'm naive), but I agree that if you can't afford to deal w/ major engine issues, FI is probably not a good option.

 

A used Vortech kit and a professional tune might be your best bet.